Columbia graduate who chose motherhood over career, China over US

Hu Rujia on the Rocky Mountains in Canada, August 2014. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Q: Do you worry about the career gap in your resume?

A: Of course I do. But I should take the responsibility for what I chose. And I always believe it's never late to start something. Moreover, as setting up family and having children is popularly supported by the mainstream society, babysitting before joining the workforce is not a bad idea.

Q: What do you think is the most valuable aspect of the overseas studies?

A: It's hard to quantify what we gained through foreign studies, which may not translate into a decent job offer or high salary immediately. But we can sense our own growth. We know who we want to be. Through living and planning on our own, we become better problem solvers and pressure handlers.

Q: Do you think foreign studies can give a boost to your job hunting?

A: I don't think I'm the best person to answer that question. My understanding is that there are more opportunities in China. It's easier to crack into upper class in China right now. On the other hand, career development in the US is already well-defined. It's not hard to lead a middle-class life for students of science and engineering but they are still hindered by glass ceiling. In general, foreign job seekers should be more qualified than the locals for the same position.

Q: Given a choice, where would you like to work?

A: I wish to find a job at a security trader or a fund management company in Beijing or Shanghai.

New generation of returnees: Endeavor and compromise

What other things overseas study can polish besides resume?